A picture's worth two tickets to the philharmonic

Generally speaking, you can post notification near the entrance of the hall that the performance is going to be photographed. Usually this is a sign or two on an easel. My understanding is that, technically, this covers you from needing a release. It's due to the fact that the patrons are in a "public" place and you can photograph any one in a public place. Now, if i thought i was going to zoom in and use someone on a cover, i'd probably ask for permission and a release; just in case.

you're right that this is a great idea, and some nice photos. yes, some would really add to next year's promo.
But in order to use audience shots for pr, wouldn't the NY Philharmonic need to have
releases from everyone in photo? A legal necessity, I believe, when photos are used for
promotional/"non-news" purposes even by a non-profit,though maybe there's a way to get around...? If not, I doubt the participating amateur photogs would go through the hassle of getting releases.
On other hand, it's great that NYPhilharmonic
isn't trying to grab all rights to the photos--
they make it plain that photogs keep the copyright. Not to be a wet (picnic) blanket, but these good experiments bring up some thorny issues that arts administrators have to be aware of...

Valid. I'm going to investigate. -AA